Artist Brian Sproul, a longtime resident of Arcata, died in 2008 leaving the contents of his home, self-titled The Horrible Spiders Gallery, to the Art Department at Humboldt State University.

This exhibit, developed by the University’s Museum and Gallery Practices program, combines the art of Brian Sproul with photographs of Sproul’s home by Nicole Jean Hill and Allyson Riggs.

Brian’s art, while sometimes dark or unsettling is quite moving. Sproul’s aunt, Carol Pechler, remarked about his art, “He’d want us to face the ugly of some human behavior, not to deny it. He’d want us to find release in humor and creativity and to share those experiences with others.”

Brian Sproul is remembered fondly by friends in the community for his wit and intelligence. Evidenced in his art, many of his creations are decidedly tongue-in-cheek, as his brother, Richard Alwine described, “A lot of his work was done as a joke or to push people’s buttons, but mainly to entertain Brian.”

On a cautionary note, a number of pieces on exhibit feature adult themes and may be inappropriate for some viewers.

This exhibit provides viewers with an opportunity to see Sproul’s work, to learn more about this prolific local artist, and to honor his memory and life. The Art Department at Humboldt State University is honored to be the recipient of his work, a selection of which will be added to the Permanent Collection of Art at the University.

The Brian Sproul Estate also gave the Art Department a very generous gift that will benefit students for years to come. The Art Department is most grateful to Brian Sproul and his family for remembering HSU with this bequest.

The Reese Bullen Gallery is open Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday between the hours of noon to 5 p.m.; Thursday, noon to 7 p.m.; Friday, noon to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Gallery is situated in the HSU Art Building, located directly across from the Van Duzer Theatre. On campus parking is available at dispensers on Harpst Street, just off of L.K. Wood Blvd. Parking meters are available throughout campus, including B Street.